Regardless of your industry, networking is a critical part of any job. Whether you love it or hate it, learning best practices when attending a network event will help in your career growth. Recently, I attended a networking event for an organization known as Law Firm Media Professionals (LFMP). LFMP is a national association dedicated to improving how communications professionals deliver public relations and communications services to the law firms they serve.
My colleague and I took the train up to NYC to spend the evening conversing with other PR professionals, as well as some top tier reporters. It was a wonderful experience where I learned how to be a better public relations professional, but also about the art of networking. Plus, who doesn’t love a free glass of wine? As a burgeoning PR professional, it got me thinking about the dos and don’ts of networking, and how to capitalize on events like these to make meaningful connections.
Step out of your comfort zone.
Approaching strangers can often be intimidating, but it’s important to remember that the goal of the event is to meet new people. No one is going to find it strange if you strike up a conversation with them. There are few things people love more than talking about themselves. You are there to learn and grow, so it’s important to engage with others and ask questions. As the adage goes, practice makes perfect. The more events you attend, the better you will become at learning how to start a conversation with people you may know nothing about.
Dress professionally.
Many networking events are after regular work hours, so it’s tempting to change out of your work clothes into a more comfortable outfit. But, considering you may be making a first impression on your appearance alone, it’s prudent to present yourself in professional and appropriate attire. No one will ever be disappointed to see you more dressed up – it shows you care about the event and the people attending. Plus, if you look sharp, you feel sharp!
Enjoy the refreshments in moderation.
Whether there is wine and beer, soft drinks, or finger foods, it’s exciting to get things for free. Still, you want to be respectful of the other attendees and the host, and not take more than your fair share. You are attending a professional event, and it’s not appropriate to be slurring your words by overindulging in too much alcohol or hogging all the cheese and crackers for yourself.
Do your research.
If you are attending an event with a panel or have a list of attendees ahead of time, at minimum you should scan through the list to see if there is anyone you know. If there is a panel, its completely appropriate to research the speakers ahead of time. Asking them pointed questions shows you took the time to learn about their background and experience and that you care about what they have to say.
Bring business cards.
You never know who you are going to meet or connect with at a networking event. In reality, life is an ongoing networking event, so it’s a good practice to have your business card on you at all times. Regardless, this way you aren’t scrambling for a pen and paper, while juggling your refreshments, and taking too much of the other person’s time as you say your goodbyes. Handing them a polished business card shows that you take networking seriously and are eager to continue a professional relationship with them.
It’s important to note there is no handbook on how to act at a networking or professional event, but if you follow some of these guidelines, you are more likely to have a positive experience. At some events you may go home with no business cards, some with ten and some with one strong connection, but they’re all equally important pieces to the puzzle that is your career path. Good luck and happy networking!